Superintendent of Schools

The strength of New Fairfield's educational system is found in the multitude of programs designed to meet the needs of every student. It is our goal to ensure that all students are treated equally and are afforded the opportunity to achieve their fullest potential. This we cannot accomplish alone. For our part, we shall continue to extend ourselves for the purpose of increasing parental involvement.

Parents are the child's first and most enduringly influential teachers. If children are to succeed in school, home and school must work together. When the school reflects the values of the home and the home supports the efforts of the school, children grow in an atmosphere of shared purpose and consistent expectations. For these reasons, parents should remain active participants in their children's education and, as partners in education, embrace the following responsibilities:

sending the child to school rested, clean, fed and ready to learn.

ensuring that the child attends school regularly.

becoming aware of the child's work, progress and problems (by talking to the child about school, by looking at the child's work and progress reports, and by attending school functions when possible).

maintaining continuous contact with the child's teachers and principal about the progress of the child's education.

reinforcing at home the importance of acquiring the knowledge, skills and values needed to function effectively in society.

volunteering time, skill, or resources when needed and possible.

taking part in school and community programs that empower parents.

responding to communications from the child's school.

holding the child responsible for the work, attendance, behavior, and deportment expected for the child's education.

modeling in one's own life the behavior one wishes to see in one's children, treating school personnel with courtesy and respect.

Best wishes for a successful school year!